Samsung to launch foldable smartphone this year: Report

Numerous leaks about Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S8 flagship have been doing the rounds of the internet for quite some time now. And now, a ‘foldable’ Samsung phone has been tipped to launch this year. Renders of Samsung’s purported ‘Galaxy X’ smartphone have surfaced online, showing a display that can be folded into three layers, thus revealing three separate screens. The renders have been shared by GizmoChina website and show a foldable display that can be converted into a tablet or mini-computer screen. When unfolded, the multiple displays combine to form a 7-inch rectangular panel. In addition, the renders highlight inward and outward folding component and show wireless keyboard as well. The presence of the wireless keyboard indicates that the device can also be used in the laptop mode. The renders show a stylus, along with the foldable display.

A recent report by a Korean publication revealed that Samsung has shipped over 1,000,000 units for the fold-out device. Apart from Samsung, LG is also reportedly making foldable display panels for various manufacturers like Huawei. Another report surfaced online recently, suggesting that the South Korean tech giant has filed a patent for a new series of flexible displays. According to the report, by Patently Mobile website, Samsung has filed a patent for a folding device that can be rolled like a paper. The patent filing includes a book-like model that can fold like a textbook and features a single curved edge, akin to the company’s Galaxy Note Edge smartphone’s display. The report further states that the company has been working on the idea since 2008 and even showcased a concept prototype at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) tradeshow of 2009. However, it may not be until 2018-19 that Samsung actually launches a device with the technology.